8th Annual Six - A - Side Festiv

The 8th annual Six - A - Side Festival was rated by all participants as the best to date. The gulf coast of Florida enjoyed magnificent cricketing weather with clear blue skies temperatures in the low 80's and a social program to die for. OH! by the way the cricket was first class too.

Once again 15 teams entered, 12 of which had been to previous festivals. Of the 3 first timers 2 won trophies.

Ashwell Crusaders won the "Festivals Trophy" beating the Cayman Island Greenies in the final 114 - 103. This was the 3rd time the Greenies have been beaten finalists. The Crusaders with Mike Gatting and Ashley Cowan (Essex) in their squad fully deserved their victory and were very popular winners. The Crusaders were a wonderful addition to the festival and have promised to be back next year to defend the trophy.

In the semi finals, the Crusaders beat the N. C. Anzacs, while Cayman Island had a hard tussle against Sarasota winning 98 - 94

One of the magic moments of the festival was during the "group play" in the match between Crusaders and. London Trailfinders. Chasing 70 to win Crusaders got off to a horrendous start when the ex England captain was clean bowled first ball by Rich Land. What an historic moment for the Trailfinders, loyal supporters of the festival for the last 7 years. Trailfinders went on to win the match by 22 runs.

For the Memorial Cricket Club in Houston who were participating for the 8th time, this festival was the first occasion that they failed to qualify for the semi finials. Don't bet they won't return next year with a vengeance!

Every year the Mariachis win the " FUN TROPHY" for masquerading as cricketers when dressed as Banditos. They are everybody's friends, bringing so much color to the festival. Check the following pictures for proof.

One of the deletions from next years social program will be the " Come as a 12 year old cricket party". Now 10 days after the party the host hotel is still fighting with the insurance adjuster about the damage and willful destruction of property, furniture and personnel. The insurance company did suggest that we have next years party on the beach!!

The girls from Memorial C. C. in Houston had no competition in the "Best Dressed Girls Uniform". They looked marvelous and more than likely were instrumental in inciting the riot that followed. Once again check the photos.

To all participants, club members, friends and volunteers a sincere THANK YOU!!! for making the festival the best yet.

PS. Mark your calendars for next year.

Nov. 26 - Dec 2, 2002

Merry Christmas & A Healthy Lucky New Year